The Great Stupa: A Family-Friendly Destination

The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion, is located in Bendigo, 2 hours north of Melbourne. It is not only a magnificent Buddhist temple but also an ideal destination for families. This sacred site offers a unique opportunity for both children and adults to explore, learn, and experience the beauty of Buddhist teachings. Read more about this beautiful buddhist symbol, and discover why the Great Stupa Bendigo is a destination for you and your family.

Buddhist Temple Bendigo – The History

The Great Stupa, built in 2018, holds great historical and cultural significance. It was created with the vision of Lama Thubten Yeshe, a Tibetan Buddhist teacher, who aimed to establish a place of harmony and peace for people from all walks of life. The temple, a replica of the Great Stupa of Gyantse in Tibet, symbolizes the enlightenment of Buddha and serves as a gateway to understanding Buddhist principles and values. It is 50 metres high and has been built to last for 1000 years.

Learning through Exploration

The Great Stupa provides a unique educational experience for families. Its structure represents the essential elements of life – earth, water, fire, air, and space. Children can learn about these elements through interactive exhibits and guided tours. The dome symbolizes earth, the square base represents water, the conical spire represents fire, the umbrella signifies air, and the lotus at the top represents space. Alongside learning about Buddhist teachings, children can also explore the cultural diversity and historical significance of the temple.

Family-Friendly Activities

Visiting the Great Stupa is an enriching experience for families. The temple opens its doors to visitors every weekday from 9:00 am to 4:45 pm, and on the weekends it is accessible from 10 am to 4:45 pm. Families can not only admire the temple’s breathtaking architecture but also wander through the surrounding gardens, offering stunning views of the countryside. Additionally, the temple organizes guided tours and also school tours, where children can participate in interactive sessions and activities. The Stupa View Cafe is open for coffee, snacks and meals everyday from 10 am to 3 pm.

Embracing Community and Compassion

This Bendigo Temple is not just a place of worship but also a centre for community engagement. Families can participate in various events and activities that promote peace, compassion, and understanding among people of different backgrounds. Cultural festivals, interfaith dialogues, and educational programs are just a few examples of the events that families can enjoy. By engaging with the Bendigo community, families can foster a sense of unity and learn about the importance of acceptance.

Impact on Families and Society

The Great Stupa has a profound impact on families and the wider community. It serves as a symbol of peace and compassion, inspiring harmony and understanding among people from diverse cultures and beliefs. By visiting the temple, families can instil these values in their children and create lasting memories of shared experiences. 

As the Stupa is located in the bush, it’s always a good idea to check the Bendigo weather before heading out.